Fantasy Upside
This is the first year Jeremy Maclin gets to play in Chip Kelly’s explosive, fast-paced, lots of plays run, offense. We forget about Maclin because he didn’t play last year, but in four seasons he has averaged 64 catches, 863 yards and over 6 TDs a season, so the resume is there and he’s certainly primed to break out this year as possibly the Birds WR1, replacing DeSean Jackson.
Fantasy Downside
Maclin isn’t Jackson in terms of speed so don’t expect that aspect to transfer into the team’s offense. Maclin will also have to battle for targets with Riley Cooper, Zach Ertz at TE and RBs LeSean McCoy and Darren Sproles. He’ll also now likely draw team’s top corners in matchups and hasn’t really logged game time with QB Nick Foles. Maclin has had trouble staying on the field in his five year career.
Bottom Line
We project Maclin for right around his career average this year: 65-870-7. There is some upside in the Eagles offense, but also risk, when you consider he didn't play in a single game in 2013. In terms of use for your fantasy team, he should probably just be considered depth at least to start the season. He’s ranked 36th which makes him a WR4 on your squad in a 10-team league. His ADP of the 7th round is at least a full round higher than guys ranked around him like: Marvin Jones (12.07), Brandin Cooks (9.9), Sammy Watkins (8.1) and Rueben Randle (10.3). It indicates to me he’s probably going a little too early for his value.
